Hearty Lamb Pilaf: A Flavorful Family Delight
Introduction
If youโre in the mood for a hearty, flavorful, and satisfying meal that the whole family will love, this Hearty Lamb Pilaf is an ideal choice. This recipe combines tender ground lamb, wholesome brown rice, and a savory blend of spices, vegetables, and dried fruit. It’s a perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet, with a touch of saltiness that enhances the overall flavor profile. While it may be a little on the salty side, you can always adjust the seasoning or use a low-sodium chicken broth to suit your taste.
This dish is a comforting and filling option for dinner, offering a healthy mix of protein, fiber, and rich flavors. It’s easy to prepare, with a few simple ingredients, and most of the cooking is done in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
Key Highlights:
- Category: Brown Rice
- Serving Size: 8
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 481.6
- Recipe Keywords: Lamb, Rice, Meat, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Oven, < 4 Hours
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground lamb | 1 lb |
| Onions, chopped | 2 medium |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Condensed chicken broth | 3 cups |
| Whole tomatoes, diced | 2 cans (14.5 oz each) |
| Brown rice | 2 cups |
| Dried oregano | 1 tsp |
| Frozen English peas | 1 cup |
| Raisins | 1/2 cup |
| Diced pimentos | 1/4 cup |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 481.6 |
| Total Fat | 16.5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 42.5 mg |
| Sodium | 774.4 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 62.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.2 g |
| Sugars | 15.8 g |
| Protein | 22.8 g |
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Lamb Mixture
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground lamb, chopped onions, and minced garlic. Stir the ingredients together as they cook, breaking up the lamb with a wooden spoon. Continue to cook until the lamb is browned and the onions are softened, which should take about 6-8 minutes. The lamb will release some of its fat, so if you prefer a leaner dish, you can drain the excess fat.
Step 2: Add Broth and Tomatoes
Once the lamb and vegetables are cooked, pour in the condensed chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir the mixture to combine. Bring the contents to a boil over medium-high heat, ensuring that the broth and tomatoes are well incorporated with the lamb.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
Add the brown rice and dried oregano to the pot, stirring everything together to evenly distribute the rice throughout the mixture. Allow the mixture to come back to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and let it simmer for 40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.
Step 4: Add Vegetables and Fruit
After 40 minutes, stir in the frozen English peas, raisins, and diced pimentos. These ingredients will add a nice contrast of flavors and textures to the pilaf. Give everything a good mix to ensure the peas are evenly distributed, and the raisins plump up in the simmering broth.
Step 5: Final Simmer
Cover the pot again and let the pilaf simmer for an additional 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. During this time, the rice will absorb the remaining broth, and the flavors will meld together beautifully.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the cooking time is complete, remove the pot from the heat. Fluff the rice with a fork and taste for seasoning. You may want to add a pinch of salt or a dash of pepper to enhance the flavor. Serve the Hearty Lamb Pilaf hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Adjust the Salt: If you are watching your sodium intake or prefer a less salty dish, substitute the condensed chicken broth with a low-sodium version, or use homemade broth for more control over the salt content.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap out the frozen peas with other vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, or spinach, to suit your preferences.
- Add Extra Protein: For a more substantial meal, you can add some extra protein, like cooked chicken or even beef, in addition to the lamb.
- Make it Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced chili peppers to the mix.
Final Thoughts
This Hearty Lamb Pilaf is a one-pot meal that offers a satisfying mix of flavors and textures. The richness of the lamb pairs wonderfully with the earthy brown rice, sweet raisins, and savory peas. Whether served as a casual family dinner or a comforting meal on a chilly evening, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, with its balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, it makes for a nutritious and filling option thatโs perfect for any weeknight dinner.
